How Exercise Can Help You

You know that becoming physically fit can enhance the quality and quantity of the years ahead. But maybe you cant seem to find enough time to exercise. Youre already tired when you get off from work, or you may think that walking around work is enough exercise. But being truly fit means setting priorities, sneaking extra activity into daily routines, and scheduling exercise time as you would other important events.

Put Fitness Into Your Schedule

Its vital to make exercise a part of your daily routine. You can become more fit by exercising just 20-30 minutes three times a week. Isnt it worth your time to make fitness a priority in your life? To activate your daily routines, take the stairs when possible or park your car at the far end of the parking lot. Schedule fitness as you would an important meeting. Walk on your lunch break. Instead of a coffee break, try a stretching break.

Three Exercise Basics

Your body benefits from three types of exercises:

Cardiovascular endurance. These exercises cause your heart, lungs, and muscles to work hard over a period of time. Bicycling, swimming, jogging, and brisk walking fall into this category.

Muscle strengthening. If your muscles arent in proper shape, some activities can result in injuries. For example, you can sprain or strain muscles if you start heavy work after driving for long periods of time.

Flexibility. This means stretching and bending your muscles periodically. It keeps your muscles loose and allows your joints to operate in a wider range.

Work Out Regularly

No exercise program is going to work properly unless its done regularly. About half an hour three or four times a week is the minimum commitment. Once you make exercise a habit, you may find your body actually craves it. If you dont do it, youll miss it.

If youre just beginning to exercise, its a good idea to begin slowly. Build up your stamina as your body works up to its fitness level.

Many Benefits

In addition to the physical benefits, regular exercise helps to promote mental and emotional health. Among the reasons:

Its a fatigue fighter, helping you to concentrate.

It helps reduce stress.

It helps clear the mind. Physical exertion helps keep you alert.

It helps you beat the blahs. A little exercise can put you in a mood to finish the day with enthusiasm. It helps you avoid those dangerous slump periods and keeps you feeling positive about yourself and your job.

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